How Exercise Shapes Kids’ Brains (Focus, Learning, and Mood)

We usually think of exercise as something that builds muscles, burns energy, or helps kids “get their wiggles out.” And while those things are true... they’re just scratching the surface.

Regular physical activity actually changes the brain, and those changes can set kids up for success in school, relationships, and life. Here’s how:

1. Exercise boosts brain function

Movement increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which improves memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.

📊 The science: A study in the Journal of Pediatrics found that just 20 minutes of moderate exercise improved children’s scores on reading and math tests immediately afterward. Regular physical activity is also linked to higher academic performance over time.

This brings back a memory...

When my son Jaxon was in the 2nd or 3rd grade, his teacher replaced every student's desk chair with a yoga ball. Instead of asking kids to "sit still and listen", she leaned into the fact that they NEEDED movement to help them focus, made it "fun", but at the same time, reduced the amount of wiggling and distractions in the classroom, and improved their attention spans, everything a 2nd/3rd grade classroom desperately needs! (Not to mention the core development 💪🏽)

2. Exercise balances mood

Physical activity releases endorphins (the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals) and reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

📊 The science: The CDC reports that kids who are physically active for at least 60 minutes a day have a 20–30% lower risk of depression and anxiety compared to less-active peers. Activity is also linked to better sleep quality, which further supports mood stability.

3. Exercise builds discipline and confidence

Learning new skills, practicing them, and seeing progress teaches kids patience, resilience, and self-belief — traits that carry over into homework, friendships, and essentially every one of their future life challenges.

📊 The science: Research published in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine found that children involved in structured physical activity programs showed a significant increase in self-esteem and perceived competence after just 12 weeks.

The takeaway for parents...?

Movement isn’t just about health.

It’s about giving kids an edge in learning, social skills, and self-control.

Even just 30–60 minutes a day can make a noticeable difference.

At Percheron Fitness, we’ve been studying, researching, planning, and developing a program to help kids build these skills in a setting that’s fun, safe, and age-appropriate. If you’ve been thinking about ways to help your kids get more of this in their week, keep an eye on the blog. In our next post, we’ll be sharing details on how your kids can experience all of this (and more) right here at Percheron Fitness.

-jP